Trick or treating in Cornwall? The risks hiding in the sweet bucket

The costume is sorted, the pumpkin is on the doorstep and the bucket is waiting by the door. But some of the biggest Halloween risks are the small ones that slip past in all the excitement.

With Halloween falling this Saturday (31 October), families across Cornwall are getting ready for a night of spooky fun. Online safety and compliance training provider High Speed Training has shared advice for parents, guardians and homeowners to help keep the night memorable for the right reasons.

Dr Richard Anderson, Learning Experience Director at the company, said: “Halloween is a fantastic time for families, but it’s easy to overlook potential hazards in the excitement. From the fire risk of Jack-o-lanterns to the importance of checking treats for allergens, a few simple precautions can make all the difference.”

The company’s full guide is in its Halloween safety tips article, with more advice on the High Speed Training Hub. Here’s what to watch for.

Fire is the big one

Open flames are one of the most significant risks on Halloween, according to the advice. A few simple swaps cut the danger right down.

• Use LED candles: battery-powered LED candles are the safer choice for Jack-o-lanterns. If you do use a real candle, go for a small tea light and never leave it unattended.
• Find a stable spot: put pumpkins on a flat, stable surface, well away from anything flammable such as curtains, decorations and dried-out pumpkins, which can catch fire easily.
• Watch the costumes: even CE-marked costumes can be highly flammable, so keep children away from all open flames. Trailing pieces like capes and veils are especially dangerous.
• Decorate with care: fake cobwebs and other spooky decorations can burn too. Keep them well clear of heat sources.

Leave the carving to the grown-ups

Pumpkin carving is a popular part of the build-up. But those tough skins can be hard to pierce, and that is where injuries happen.

Adults should use a sharp, sturdy knife to cut through the pumpkin, and children should never carve alone. To keep them involved, let them draw their design on the pumpkin (or on paper) for an adult to carve.

Stick together on the streets

Dr Anderson said: “Group safety when trick-or-treating is essential. Always have a responsible adult accompany young children, and make sure to plan your route in advance, sticking to familiar, well-lit areas.

“To ensure children can be seen by drivers in the dark, add a glow stick or reflective tape to your child’s costume. And, finally, remind children to be respectful of property and to skip any houses that clearly display a ‘no trick-or-treating’ sign.”

Check the bucket before anyone tucks in

Once everyone is home, the haul needs a once-over before the eating starts.

Allergies come first

Allergies are the most significant risk when it comes to treats. Adults should check the ingredients of every sweet before children eat it.

Look at the labels

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute has warned of illegally imported sweets that may contain additives banned in the UK. Check for legitimate labelling.

And the dates

Make sure sweets are within their expiry date. Halloween can be seen as a handy chance to clear out the old packets tucked away at the back of the cupboard.